I was asked to be the featured non-profit at James’ River of Art event in July 2015 and it was fabulous! We had a great turnout and raised over $300! The ambiance was very warm and friendly, with many guests who stopped at my table to inquire and help us fundraise. James and Annette make a great team and are always willing to go the extra mile to help out! Thank you!

It is my sincere honor to share a testimonial for Life is Art. I first met James and Annette in 2010 at our PARK Project launch party and we have been PARKners ever since! They embody what it means to be a philanthropist and active citizen in the community. We have collaborated on many events and projects throughout the years and I can say with utmost confidence that anything Life is Art is involved with is a worthwhile endeavor. Their goal is always centered on making a positive impact in the community and quality of life of, not only the artists their mission serves but, the entire South Florida community! I feel blessed to know and call them my friends. Thank you for LIVING THE CAUSE EVERY DAY and may God continue to bless you and Life is Art in abundance.

The magic city has lots of magic with James and Annette and the team of volunteers.
When one discovers that art is their passion and looks for info on how?, running into Life Is Art is a like a door opening to the light. I am ever so grateful and I look forward to all the great events that will be sponsored by this knowledgable and terrific team.

I had the honor of being a Featured Artist at one of their events… it was a great crowd with lots of positive energy! James and Annette are TRUE supporters of the arts!!! Life Is Art is an incredible platform and refreshing in a town where some events are sometimes pretentious. They provide great opportunities to network and connect with supportive art lovers. Honest and Professional. :)

i couldn’t agree more with what everyone has said here already, but i will add that i have enjoyed the times i attended the river of art events and when i was finally chosen to be a featured artist, i was beyond happy! really, james and annette are so involved in the art community, i continue to learn from them. keep up the amazing job!! – ak cespedes

Life is Art is an endeavor in providing artists a collective voice. Working together as one community through this organization will continue to help artists raise awareness of the unique challenges and opportunities they face every day. Keep up the good work guys! Your support of the community is appreciated.

Life Is Art has been instrumental in my development as an artist, especially one new to South Florida. At my first events more than a year ago, they made me feel welcomed and supported. The instructional seminars have been incredibly helpful â€“for example, the seminar about how to approach galleries led me to package images of my work on a thumb drive and introduce myself at galleries not only in South Florida but in New York City as well. I felt I had learned enough to present myself and my work in a professional way.
My participation in SPECTRUM/Art Basel last year through Life Is Art was the most exciting moment of my artistic life. I helped man the booth â€“ another valuable growth opportunity in the business of art â€“ and actually sold another artistâ€™s piece! The extraordinary effort of James, Joshua and the other Life Is Art leaders made the whole thing possible. I look forward to staying involved.

I am a local artist in Miami,
I have known James and Annette for several years now since starting my career as an artist.
I have seen nothing but positive and inspirational things done by them for the good of Miami’s emerging Artists.
Through their programs (Life is Art and Soul of Miami) they have been an intricate part of my development as a growing visual artist.
Whether through their seminars to help artists on building their business skills or through their involvement in local events and festivals, they have been compassionate and loving in helping us artists in getting ahead and helping our dreams come true!.
Thank you with all my heart James and Annette, Life is Art!
Rei Ramirez

Life is Art is an amazing group. Not only do you offer support for artists, but you also serve a fountain of information for us. As an artist it’s great to know that James Echols and Life is Art is in my corner. Thank you for all you do to help artists succeed and for making the arts such an integral part of our community!

It’d be way too easy for this to quickly turn into a page-long essay so I have to do my best to keep it short. James and Annette through Life is Art, Soul of Miami and various other endeavors they’ve spearheaded have been a couple of the best role models I was never looking for. Their passion and impact on the local community is in part what inspired me to take a more active role in the art scene myself. For over 4 years now I’ve seen them inspire, influence, educate and entertain people through their various initiatives.
I sincerely would not be where I am today as far as my role in the local arts community, were it not for the guidance and references I’ve gotten from James and Annette. I can only hope that they will continue to astound me with the amount of projects they take on, and to help raise up the community through their efforts for many years to come.

Great organization. They are all about the art, saving it, showing it, promoting all the time. We need art to always be saved in our communities. Florida is a art hub, it just needs the push that Life’s A Art is about….

I have worked with the team at Life is Art for several years and I can confidently say that their dedication to their mission is unparalleled. The joy and support they have for artists within the community is beautiful. Their constant work and efforts to raise awareness for artists is inspiring. If you have the opportunity to work with life is art I highly suggest that you do so, this organization is one of the true philanthropic causes in South Florida.

First of all, I would like to take my hat off to James and Annette for the tremendous labor of love that they are doing. I find it nothing short of amazing.

However, much more than that, I have to commend James and Annette of being absolutely focused on their tasks, their organizational ability, their commitment to move the arts forward and achieve results.

Their events are all really well organized, with a clear purpose, focused on real artists and they do make a difference.

It has been a pleasure to know both for the past year or so and I hope that this continues for many more years.

My first event in Miami was with Life is Art in 2011in one of the “River of Art events”. I had the pleasure of working with them on many occasions including in Spectrum as part of the 2014 Art Basel week and also attended several of their seminars.
What James and Annette are trying to accomplish in the Miami Art Scene is – plain and simple – priceless. They do it for the arts and without asking for anything in return. They invest all of their time and effort to help the art scene to become a proper breading ground for artists to florish and for art-lovers, collectors and others to be celebrating a healthy & diverse art-scene.
I hope to see them everywhere for many years to come.

LIA provides a medium for artists to show, sell, and expose their work to the general public. Moreover they provide workshops, talks, networkers, and programs that help the artist become a better , more effective, and successful professional. They are a valuable resource in the South Florida Cultural Landscape.

As a new artist, it can feel daunting to go out into the market with little knowledge and much apprehension. Thank you for paving the way by creating a supportive and engaging container. Your organization is but an extension of your selves, as you are remarkable and welcoming individuals, making everyone and anyone feel at ease at your events. Miami needs you, as do the artists.

I have been to a few events from Life is Art since 2014 including 3 seminars, the River of Art exhibition parties, Art Deco Festival and their latest fundraiser. They have great parties, but the most important part of their work is helping the local artists grow and succeed. James, Annette and their staff are “hands on” and very helpful. The seminars are always a great learning experience. As a new artist, I am thankful to have met Life is Art and look forward to the future events to help me grow in my career as an artist.

I came out to one of Life is Art first events at Carrabas at Miami Beach. I am amazed at how much you have grown and done for artists and the community. I recently responded to your Call for Artiists for Widening the Cycle Exhibit in Boston. My art has been selected. Thank you so much for your perseverance and helping me further my career.

Not only does LifeIsArt.org host the best parties and showcase emerging artists in South Florida, they are also a driving force in educating artists about marketing and legal rights. James and Annette are a life force in Miami’s cultural renaissance!

All Artist need support and encouragement…To bring the Art to the people is the most basic element of the Collector-Artist exchange. Though the most basic, for the Artist, it can be the most difficult. Artist tend to Create, while exposure becomes a dream or hope. ” LIFE IS ART “, makes dreams come true for many Artist and bring hope and gratitude for their creative process and output, ( The Artwork Itself). And, when The Collector supports the Artist with a purchase, ” Magic happens “,for both the Creator and the Patron. Art Is Life,is a conduit to magic, dreams and the hopes of Many Artist and Collectors, Great Job…I would Love to Donate, Purvis Young Artwork or Howard Finster Artwork to your next fund raising event. Keep up the great work. “FACEBOOK”, Purvis Young Collectors page. Peace and Happy New Year, Larry T Clemons

James Echols and Life is Art is a staple in our community. I appreciate the resource, the expertise and the adventures at some of our events, including the Gapal Interactive Art Exhibit in Wynwood. It is refreshing to do business with people who really gets it AND gets it done!

Life Is Art is a dynamic organization that has integrity, initiative and creativity. Your vision is imperative in highlighting up-n-coming artists. More then anything, it is your dedication and hard work. That is what sets you apart! Thank you so much for all your help in launching my own art career!

Thank you for all your hard work It is truly a delight to work with your organization Please don’t forget about us next year. We would love to host an event at Briza for Life is Art.
Have a great New Year!!!!

Thank you very much for all of your hard work to promote art and local artists. I appreciated the opportunity to show my work at the Fall for the Arts event. I hope to be able to participate in additional events since I need other venues for my art. Thanks again!

Life is Art events and seminars continue to provide quality services to the Miami art community on many levels. Artists get valuable business and art career information, the networking alone stimulates creativity and the costs to attend are very afforadable.
Creative Connections 9 featured Julia Wakefield’s presentation on public relaions marketing covered a range of social media marketing options, including hot tips for free online pr services, media planning, who and when to contact people/publications to get your event or announcement published.
GAB studios hosted this event and if you look at the photos ( http://lifeisartfest.org/2011/02/16/photographs-of-creative-connections-9-on-21511/ ) you can see what a fabulous art and seminar space GAB provides.
GAB is located in the Wynwood Art District and should definitely be on your list of galleries to visit.
Looking forward to future Life Is Art Creative Connections in 2011!

First art event I have ever attended. Must say It was a moment I should like to repeat. Awesome job from a newbie stand point. I just may be a bit different somehow changed for the better, can’t put my finger on it but I believe there is some deep connection to the soul in Art. Interesting, very interesting indeed.

I’ve found “Life is Art” a professional, reliable, and very visible organization. I’ve experienced their knowledge, connections, advice, and accessibility to be extremely helpful, particularly in a large town. And, whenever I’m out in the art scene, I always run into James, Annette, and Mark.. proving that they are THE organization that is really in touch with the South Florida art scene. Thanks so much!

Life is Art is a company dedicated to the art world and it is always a pleasure working with them. I look forward to working with them on new projects here at GAB Studio starting in the New Year.
Bridges Aderhold
Owner of GAB Studio

â€¢ James and Annette are the soul of this wonderful organization which is Life is Art. Art in Miami has not been the same since them appeared, and, for my artistic career, my first solo space was in their very first exhibit were I had the honor to be the first artist who sold a piece through the organization, and in addition to it was the first artwork I sold out of Florida. They possess an extraordinary energy that together they apply to their effort to support artists from all levels. They not only announce in the web all the shows were I participate but in most of the cases they support me with their presence. They interview artists and by sharing they inputs, they are really an entity that helps us to connect each others in a way we all appreciate. Just one more time, thanks James and Annette.

I have had the pleasure of working first-hand with the Life is Art Organization during our “Earth is Art” event. The organization is sincerely dedicated to advocating awareness and growth in our local Art community. The team works hard to bringforth quality, local artists utilizing all the resources available to them. They work hard, without financial gain, to really push the movement forward and I would highly endorse any project the Life is Art organization is affiliated with. – Susie Glass, VP Marketing Metro 1 Properties / USGBC Miami-Dade & Keys Communications Chair

My favorite thing about Life is Art is the incredible enthusiasm and energy that their team has. James and Annette along with the crew really make you feel welcome at each and every event they are involved with and their vision and purpose shows through in everything they do. I am happy that they have chosen Miami as the city to flourish their organization in because we really need humble souls like them here to unite the art community.

Life is Art events have always been eye openers to say the least.
I definitely agree with the comments from the Brody’s, Sophia and the others.
looking forward to more multisensory vanguard events from artoconecto, parafernalia and life is art
joey succar

I am so appreciative to Life Is Art for giving me the opportunity to present my work in various venues. Life Is Art Organization are excellent promoters and supporters of the arts community in South Florida. There is no other organization like theirs. This organization is having a real, positive impact on the arts in our community.
Thank You – I Iook forward to working with you in 2011! Ivette Ortiz

When I moved to Miami end of 2008 I was very lucky to answer a Craigslist post of Life is Art.
Being new in a city and finding nice people like Annette and James and the rest of the crew is priceless! And they allowed me to show my work in a great attitude free environment. There is no way I would have felt as quickly at home in Miami without them! They open doors to the local art world, their dedication and creativity on how to support the art is unmatched! Thank you!

Life is Art is one of the most dedicated organizations to all local artists here in South Florida. They give so many useful information to artists and give the community a chance to experience the beauty Miami holds. James and Annette have proven that they support all shapes and sizes of different forms of arts and appreciate all the positive feedback the public brings to their events. They are humble kind fantastic people and I am very proud to call them my dearest friends. I hope that they continue their success and that they continue to teach all of us the beauty of art.

I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude toward James and Annette. Since moving to Miami Beach one year ago, no one has given me and my music more constant support and promotion. After meeting these two at an Art Walk warehouse event and jamming out spontaneously, James & Annette have continued to attend my live shows, book my band for special events, and attract new fans to my work via social networking sites. Their website, Soul of Miami, is the most comprehensive source of information for what’s going on in the South Florida arts community. Thank you for all that you do not just for me but for us all here in Miami. It wouldn’t be the same around here without the two of you. Much love and respect always!!! xoxo

Life is Art is an organization that has demonstrated a strong commitment towards the diverse arts community in Miami. James and Annette have been great friends and collaborators and they got the stamina of a cheerleaders troupe–they rock the events and are always there with a big wide smile to welcome you into their artistic vision of Miami. They are excellent promoters and supporters of the arts community in the city. Here at Artoconecto, we have always been very appreciative of all their efforts and hard work to maintain a sense of belonging in the city–and they do it through loads of hard work. It ain’t easy work. We love them. Alex and Danny

Miami has not been the same and it’s certainly better since James and Annette arrived and formed Life is Art. They are tireless in their effort to support artists from the ground up at a grassroots level. As a former grant writer for a major cultural institution here, I am familiar with how difficult it is for art supporters to stay persistent and strong in their mission, and this is exactly what James and Annette are doing with much grace, enthusiasm and hard work.

Hey Guys, just wanted to say thanks so much for believing in my work and inviting me to show my art at the Fall for the Arts event at the Adrian Arsht Center. It was indeed an honor, pleasure and a great boost to my art career. Thanks again for the important job you do in our community helping and showcasing artists.

I have been lucky enough to be able to attend a few of the Life Is Art events this year and I am always very impressed. James and Annette, the force behind Life is Art, have such a fantastic energy that people gravitate towards them and their events are both interesting and unique. They always manage to find the best hidden talents in our City and provide a showcase these artists would likely not have otherwise. There really is no other organization like theirs and there could not be without them two of them. They bring the community together and work very hard to do so.

I have known James (Echols) and Annette (Peikert) since before Life Is Art, and seen them at most of the art events I attend, which is a lot of art events. James and Annette are energetic and always ready and willing to reach out to new artists, new ideas, new media. I feel the same way. That’s why we often attend the same events.

The three of us (and there are others out there) try to show up to encourage our artist friends. I try to go to Life Is Art events because they have proven to be great places to network and meet terrific people–like James and Annette. Life Is Art has much in common with my organization, Culture in the City, and I look forward to collaborating with them in the future.

I’ve had the pleasure of participating in three events produced by Life is Art. I cant say more about the quality of the events that James, Annette, and the good folks at Life is Art have been doing for the paste few years. They have helped create opportunities for local emerging artist such as myself through a host of exhibition, networking events, fundraisers, and informational workshops.

They have definitely filled a void that previously (and for to many years)was empty. I can’t wait to see whats next for them… and I will be glad to take part in anything that they do in the future!

I can’t express how much I respect James and Annette for the countless hours of hard work they put into Life Is Art… and their hard work is reaping returns. This organization is having a real, positive impact on the arts community in South Florida – from providing opportunities for artists to display their work, to organizing networking events, to providing seminars helping artists market themselves, to tapping experts’ advice on intellectual property. While Miami is evolving into an international arts and culture hub, unfortunately local artists get short shrift. Life Is Art decided it was time for that to change, and they are bringing Miami artists to the forefront of the local, regional, national, and even international arts scene.

James and Annette and the whole Life Is Art crew are movers and shakers in a very real sense – upending the traditional Miami art scene to integrate the incredible diversity that makes our city – and our artists – unique.

As president of a professional association, the Association for Women in Communications South Florida, which partners with Life Is Art for events, I can describe first-hand their work ethic, how they see every last detail through to the end, and their dedication to their mission.

You will see the effort, generosity and love James and Annette put into every project they get involved in. I’ve seen their hard work since the Inaugural Life Is Art Miami Featured Artist Fair, at the Lombardi properties venue, which was a lot of fun by the way. The Life is Art team is always busy doing something to nourish the local art scene.
Thank you! Looking forward to see you grow even more!!!

Life is Art is the only organization that truly concerns about Art and the wellbeing of the artist’s community by providing cultural,network, social events and more for the south florida area. They are an example to follow, and it has been great to being eble to enjoy from their events , as well as be part of organizing Essence’s past events with my company: parafernalia.tv as well.
Thanks for everything!

James,
I subscribe to this blog in order to find out what is happening in the art world here in South Florida. You and yours do an incredible job of gathering the information in one place. If not for Life Is Art, most opportunities would not receive attention from me because they are just not easily found. Most of the time, your post shows up on Google Alerts while the original call does not.

The Fall for the Arts event was another I attended, but did not blog. It was great that your group had art hanging in the booth, the raffle, and the buttons. The booth looked great, as the people kept going in to check it out.

Life is Art’s team is dedicated, mission oriented, dynamic and all encompassing. They have brilliantly positioned themselves to be a leader in the South Florida Arts Community. They have the ability to be both strategic thinkers, by developing a groundswell of artists and sponsors and, at the same time be creative in all that they do to provide innovative platforms. Both James and Annette have taken into consideration all of the little details and yet have striven to develop every opportunity that comes their way. If I had to sum up my impression of their collective vision, it would be that they are a trendsetter in the Arts that will add value and credibility to everyone who collaborates with them! Thank you from one who knows. . .

I want to thank Life Is Art for its work within the artistic landscape of South Florida. In a geographical area where culture and community has, at times, been overshadowed by the superficial night club scene, Life Is Art has revitalized the appreciation of art and cohesive spirit among artists that was once lost.

I think Life is Art is a unique and amazing organization. One interesting event was at the Tamarind restaurant in north beach. An attorney gave a talk about legal issues for artists. Life Is Art also arranged for some wonderful appetizers from the restaurant.

James and Annette from Life Is Art are two of the very sweetest people I know. They are extremely gracious, hardworking and an incredible force of nature continually pushing for the arts here is South Florida. I salute Life Is Art in all their efforts and enjoy attending their events whenever I possibly can. Love and success to you both! –Robin White

Hello James,
I am so appreciative to Life Is Art for giving me the opportunity to present my work at the Fall for the Arts Festival last month! This gave me the rare prospect for my work to potentially be seen by thousands of attendees. I am so happy you have formed this organization to provide artists with a platform to get their work recognized in the community.
Anne-Margaret

James and Annette from Life Is Art have incredible ideas and the energy, knowledge and organization to make them come true. They are helping artists to showcase their work, they are organizing meeting to educate the artists about their legal rights, teaching artists how to market themselves and the list continues. Every event is a pleasure to attend. It is always a rich environment for artists to meet, mangle, chat and learn. James and Annette are always very helpful to advise other art organizations as well. Overall, very professional and eager to help. I love Live Is Art.

Life is Art has been a pleasurable experience for me. James Echols and his crew are hardworking people who give everything possible to help artists. James is a man of his word and is also professional. He makes sure that artists get pertinent info for any events that will help them. I truly enjoy working with Life is Art.

It’s really great what your organization is doing for artists in S. Florida… This area needs more of this and your contribution to the Arts is very encouraging… Kuddos and keep up the great work that you all have been doing….